Did you ever wonder if there is anything new on Mackinac Island?

By David McClelland

The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum opened on July 14,2010 after years of planning, construction and preservation. The Museum opened in the 1838 Indian Dormitory structure which is located on the east edge of Marquette Park, directly below Fort Mackinac. The Manoogian's Foundation reportedly donated $850,000 to make the museum possible. The Indian Dormitory was completely renovated and modernized inside while retaining the original exterior look.
Our tour of the Museum last weekend was well worth the $5 admission fee and brought many surprises. Contained within its three floors are Native American baskets and present-day paintings of the island by its residents. Many historic treasures of the Mackinac State Historic Parks' collection are on display, some nearly two centuries old.
There is also magnificent art from The Manoogian Collection.
On the third level, across from the elevator, is a very large aerial photo of the south central portion of the Island, including the Grand Hotel and its golf course, the central waterfront and the Governor's summer residence. The photo also captures much more of the island, including the state park airport to the north. It is a spectacular view.
One surprise was a fragment of decorated prehistoric pottery recently excavated from the actual site of the museum. By contrast, a very modern video display allows visitors to see the entire Island, one photo at a time, and enlargements at the viewer's discretion. Then, on the lowest level of the structure, children, under supervision, were at play drawing pictures on mini Buddha Boards with water applied with paint brushes. As the children "painted" with water, their creations appeared and there were smiles and laughter all around.
The Art Museum is the newest attraction on Mackinac Island and is a delight for young and old alike. The Museum is a "must see" on your next visit to the island.